Flu season starts early: UKHSA urges eligible groups to get vaccinated

Early rise in flu activity

According to the latest UKHSA report, flu (influenza) activity is now above the usual baseline for this time of year. Hospital admissions for flu have increased from 1.74 to 2.19 per 100,000 people, with 247 new admissions reported this week alone. Among children aged 5 to 14, the proportion testing positive for flu in hospital settings rose steeply from 20% to nearly 31% in a single week.

Who should get vaccinated

The flu vaccine is offered free on the NHS to those most at risk of serious illness. This includes adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women, and people with certain long-term health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or chronic respiratory illness.

Parents are also being reminded to ensure their children are protected. School-age children can receive the nasal spray flu vaccine through school vaccination programmes, while parents of two and three-year-olds should arrange appointments with their GP practice.

Dr Allen added that vaccinating children plays a key role in protecting vulnerable groups. “The nasal spray vaccine can help stop your child from getting very unwell and reduce the risk of passing flu to vulnerable family members,” he said.

Other respiratory viruses remain stable

While flu cases are climbing, COVID-19 activity has decreased and is now circulating at baseline levels. COVID-19 hospital admissions dropped to 2.52 per 100,000 from 3.37 the previous week, and intensive care admissions remain low. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity has been mixed, with overall hospital admission rates falling slightly.

UKHSA’s weekly surveillance also notes that emergency department attendances for bronchiolitis, a common winter illness caused by RSV in young children, remain stable.

Staying well this winter

As colder weather arrives, public health experts are emphasising the importance of protecting yourself and those around you from winter illnesses. Vaccination remains the best defence against flu and COVID-19 for those eligible.

Anyone experiencing flu or COVID-19 symptoms - including a high temperature, cough, or feeling tired and achy - is advised to minimise contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. If you need to go out while unwell, consider wearing a face covering, keep indoor spaces well ventilated, and wash your hands regularly.

The UKHSA will continue to monitor trends in flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory infections through its weekly surveillance reports in the weeks ahead.